Kurt Cobain

When I Was an Alien

An unhappy teen tries to figure out where he belongs in the world and forms a band. Sound familiar? Yeah, well, in this one, the band is Nirvana, the unhappy teen is Kurt Cobain, oh, and did we mention it’s a rocking graphic novel and aliens feature prominently? With a title taken from Cobain’s childhood belief that he was really an alien, Kurt Cobain: When I Was an Alien, by Danilo Deninotti and Toni Bruno, snapshots Cobain’s life from childhood through adolescence right up to the brink of Nirvana’s fame. The alien theme is well played throughout. Not only do aliens occasionally come talk to young Cobain in times of special torment, but like-minded individuals (such as future bandmates Krist Novoselic and Dave Grohl) are also rendered as aliens in pivotal moments for Cobain’s (and ultimately Nirvana’s) future. The fluid lines and blue-toned coloring complete the cool, extraterrestrial vibe.

Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The author of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the author for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.